Big turnout as Kathy Staff is laid to rest

Published on Tuesday 23 December 2008 20:42

MOURNERS gathered yesterday at a funeral service for Kathy Staff, who played Nora Batty in Last Of The Summer Wine.

Known and loved by millions for her role as Britain's favourite battleaxe, she was laid to rest at St Mark's Church, Dukinfield, in Tameside, where she was a lifelong member – and gave her first stage performances as a child in church pantomimes.

The 80-year-old died surrounded by her family on 13 December after a long illness.

More than 400 mourners heard a eulogy from fellow actor and life-long friend Roy Barraclough, who could not be at the service due to acting commitments but the actress's husband, John, and daughters Katherine and Susan, sat among mourners who laughed and cried.